Chemical and Biological Reaction Engineering Fundamentals

Chemical and biological reaction engineering is at the heart of producing everything from clean energy and advanced materials to life-saving pharmaceuticals. Understanding how reactions behave and how to design the vessels that contain them is essential for modern engineers. This course provides a clear, step-by-step pathway to mastering these complex systems using clear written explanations, practical formulas, and guided problem-solving exercises. You will transition from basic chemical kinetics to designing multi-phase reactors and analyzing complex biological systems. By working through realistic engineering scenarios, you will develop the analytical skills needed to predict reactor performance, optimize yields, and troubleshoot real-world chemical and biochemical processes. What you'll learn: - Understand the foundational principles of chemical kinetics, reaction rates, and temperature dependence. - Design and analyze ideal reactors including batch, continuous stirred-tank (CSTR), and plug flow reactors (PFR). - Analyze complex biological reaction networks, enzymatic pathways, and bioreactor configurations. - Evaluate transport limitations, catalyst deactivation, and multi-phase reactor dynamics. - Apply modern numerical methods and basic computational modeling concepts to solve non-isothermal reactor problems. The course begins with foundational definitions, chemical thermodynamics, and kinetic rate laws. You will then progress through structured modules covering reactor design equations, catalysis, and biological systems, applying your knowledge through comprehensive written problem sets that reinforce every core concept. This course is designed for engineering students, chemistry graduates, and working professionals looking for a solid, beginner-friendly foundation in reaction engineering. No advanced prior background in reactor design is required, though a basic understanding of general chemistry and calculus is helpful. Start reading today to build a strong foundation in chemical and biological reactor design.